This post is based on my Masters dissertation, as well as a couple of workshops delivered at IATEFL Pre-Conference Event 2009 (Cardiff) and NATECLA 2009 (Leeds) My small-scale study aimed to discover differences in the writing processes of ESOL learners whilst completing timed writing tasks across paper-based (PB) […]
Low Educated Second Language and Literacy Acquisition (LESLLA) for Adults is an international forum of researchers who share an interest in research on the development of second language skills by adult immigrants with little or no schooling prior to entering the country of entry. The goal of the […]
When it comes to defining a second-language learner’s proficiency, what options are there? Most of what is available is time consuming and expensive. However, the DIALANG project has developed a Web-based instrument that allows learners to assess their proficiency in, particularly EU, languages. The method is entirely ‘self-assessment’ […]
Test your knowledge of various areas of linguistics with these interactive exercises. Just follow the links below: Language and communication Grammar (syntax, morphology, phonology, phonetics) First language acquisition Second language acquisition Semantics and Pragmatics Sociolinguistics
Now that the unintentional sabbatical is over…. What do the following phrases have in common? Hasta la vista baby It’s a nice day, hana? Sometimes I’ll start a sentence in English y termino en español Answer: they are all forms of ‘code-switching’; that is, the (more or less […]
An investigation by John Stossel entitled “Stupid in America” highlighting some of the flaws with the education system in the United States. Do you think UK schools are following suit?
John Taylor Gatto uses alternative methods to inspire deprived children to enjoy education. His secret – he hates “schooling” and ignores tests; instead, he concentrates on preparing pupils for life.
